Is Groin Hernia Serious – Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention in Singapore
Find out all you need to know about groin hernia...
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide educational guidance as there may be other treatment options available; it does not replace the need for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as specific advice for individual cases.
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscles. The most common type of hernias occur in the abdominal area, but they can also appear in other areas such as the groin, belly button, or around surgical incisions. If you have been diagnosed with a hernia, it is crucial to seek proper treatment to avoid potential complications.
There are several types of hernias, but the most common ones include:
A hiatus hernia occurs when a part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It is commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can cause symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain.
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, accounting for about 75% of all cases. They occur when part of the intestine bulges through a weak spot in the lower abdominal muscles, causing a visible bulge in the groin area.
Umbilical hernias are common among infants and occur when part of the intestine bulges through the abdominal muscles near the belly button. They can also affect adults who have weakened abdominal muscles due to pregnancy or obesity.
Incisional hernias occur in the area of a previous abdominal surgery. They can develop years after the initial surgery due to weakened scar tissue.
The most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge or swelling in the affected area. Other common symptoms include pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects or straining during bowel movements. In some cases, hernias can also cause nausea and vomiting.
Hernias occur when there is a weakness or tear in the muscles that hold organs in place. Some common causes of hernias include:
If you suspect you have a hernia, it is essential to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The following are some common methods used to diagnose hernias:
The treatment options for hernias depend on the severity and location of the hernia. In some cases, a doctor may recommend non-surgical options before considering surgery.
If the hernia is small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it over time to see if it gets worse.
Wearing a supportive garment over the affected area can provide temporary relief and prevent the hernia from protruding further.
Making some lifestyle modifications such as avoiding heavy lifting, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms and prevent the hernia from getting bigger.
In cases where the hernia is large or causing symptoms, surgery may be necessary. The following are some surgical options for treating hernias in Singapore.
In traditional open surgery, a surgeon makes an incision near the hernia. This repairs the hernia by pushing the bulging tissue back into place. It helps to strengthen the surrounding muscles with sutures or mesh.
In this minimally invasive procedure, a surgeon makes several small incisions and uses specialised tools to repair the hernia.
A newer technique similar to laparoscopy, robotic surgery involves using a robot-assisted system controlled by the surgeon to perform the operation with more precision and less risk of complications.
After a hernia surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two to monitor your recovery. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for post-operative care, which may include:
Surgery is usually recommended for treating hernias, and the cost of this procedure can vary depending on the type of surgery, hospital fees, and other related expenses. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health has set fee benchmarks for common surgeries, including hernia repair.
According to MOH fee guidelines, a hernia repair in Singapore can cost between $3000 – $11,200. This depends on multiple factors such as type of hernia, complications and more.
Higher surgeon fees may also be incurred as a result of larger defects, mesh placement, larger hernia sacs, femoral hernias, hernias with complications and emergency surgery.
The cost of hernia treatment in Singapore may thus vary depending on the type and complexity of the hernia, as well as the chosen treatment approach. However, with a competitive healthcare market, the costs are generally affordable compared to other developed countries. Furthermore, some insurance plans may cover the cost of hernia treatment in Singapore, making it a more accessible option for patients.
It is important to note that these are just fee benchmarks and actual fees can vary depending on individual circumstances and hospital charges. Patients are advised to discuss the cost of surgery with their doctors and hospitals beforehand.
In some cases, subsidies or insurance coverage may be available to help offset the cost of hernia surgery. For example, Singapore citizens and permanent residents can use Medisave to pay for a portion of the surgical fees. Those with MediShield Life or private health insurance may also have coverage for hernia surgery.
Hernias can be a common and uncomfortable condition. But with proper treatment, they can be effectively managed. If you have been diagnosed with a hernia, it is essential to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.
With advancements in medical technology and procedures, there are various options available in Singapore for treating hernias and helping you get back to your normal daily activities.
Remember, early detection and treatment can help prevent potential complications, so don’t ignore any symptoms and seek medical attention when needed. So make sure to prioritise your health and well-being by taking care of any possible hernias that may arise. Stay healthy!
Find out all you need to know about groin hernia...
Discover when hernia is considered dangerous, the various hernia types...
Discover when hernia is considered dangerous, the various hernia types...
Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive medical care for all patients.
Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive medical care for all patients.
Lower your chances of complications, see your doctor early and discuss your best treatment options.
We understand that hernias are worrying, but they can often be treated early. Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive hernia care for all patients.
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